Of the over 30 years I have been in framing, it amazes me how framers treat, mount and frame art and artifacts for people who patronize them. On a weekly basis, it's not unusual for someone to contact me through email or phone informing me of a recently framed item which shows signs of deterioration.
The following map, over 400 years old, is a case in point. Although erroneously titled "Virginia", it's really a incredibly accurate likeness of North Carolina. Of course, shortly afterwards, Virginia was given the correct depiction when the cartographers mapped it thoroughly and accurately.
As a seasoned collector of autographs of over 35 years, it still excites me to pick up long desired rare autograph signed by someone I admire. You see, unlike most things, a complete set of autographs cannot be acquired any day or night. It has to be built over time or acquired intact when the rare opportunity presents itself.
As a child, history always fascinated me. Studying Ancient Greek and Roman civilizations and through modern American history held a special place in my heart. Knowing how our ancestors lived made me think and take in what they endured throughout history.
Collecting historical autographs has intrigued me for many years given the fact one can own a real piece of history. When first coming into this collecting field many years ago, my first thought was "Aren't these documents locked away in a museum or archives?" It's easy to assume that. But, many important letters and documents are in private collections.
The thrill of collecting ancient coins is when you imagine what kings, emperors and other famous ancient people touched and spent these coins. Nothing is more exciting than thinking if Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar or even Cleopatra touched a coin.
One of the most interesting items I have framed lately is a note written by Abraham Lincoln toward the conclusion of the Civil War where he orders a young man to be sent to his mother. Rarely did President Lincoln evoke emotions in his orders, such as discharges, but this one must have really stirred Lincoln to react.
As a young boy, my interests involved collecting a variety of things: Comic books, rocks, shells, even bugs. It was enjoyable to accumulate many varieties and types of these items. It was very challenging and fun to seek items which were unique and popular. It was even fun collecting things other people wanted.
